‘Very distressing’ burglaries in Haddenham and Wilburton are ‘strikingly similar in nature’ say Ely police officers

Items of personal and sentimental value stolen (Image: Archant)

Burglary investigators at Ely police station described the two crime scenes as ‘strikingly similar’ in nature.

The first incident, which happened on Hill Row, Haddenham, close to Hill Row Day Nursery, on May 6, involved causing damage to gain entry, followed by an untidy search of the premises.

The second burglary happened on Thursday May 12 at an address at West End, Wilburton where the offender caused damage to gain entry and the interior was subject to an untidy search.

The offence at West End was committed in the afternoon during the hours of daylight.

A police spokesman said: “Both locations are on busy roads that run through the centre of their respective villages.

“Both addresses are visible from the road.

“There is a high likelihood of someone having seen something irregular and very relevant to the investigation.”

Detective Constable Mark Beaven said: “We are very keen to appeal for witnesses to come forward to support our investigation of these crimes.

“The method used in these offences is very distressing and items of personal and sentimental value have been stolen in both cases.

“Please come forward and assist our enquiries. It is important that we bring the offender(s) to justice, and where possible, return property to the rightful owners.

“We are keen to reassure residents of East Cambridgeshire that burglary has fallen month on month for the last year in our district.

“This Christmas saw the first seasonal period in five years where no burglaries whatsoever were recorded in Ely city.

“Burglary remains of the highest priority and we are determined to maintain our performance in this area of policing.”

If you can provide any information with regard to these or other cases, please call police on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.